When planning honeymoon destinations in sun, sand and sea, so many of us immediately think of exotic places to go to. The most common spots that come to mind are the Caribbean and Mexico; both boast of miles of beaches and well developed tourism sectors. And to be fair, you can probably have the best honeymoon destinations in those places. But are we not overlooking choice beach spots right under our noses? Florida has some of the best sunny beaches anywhere, it is just a border crossing away from Canada and Americans need not leave the US.

Romantic getaways in Florida beaches involve lower travel fares (it is nearer) and people speak the same language most of us do – English. You can always browse through the website of the American Society of Travel Agents, but here is a list of three suggestions:

Perdido Key State Park, Pensacola, Florida

There are lots of sunny beaches in Perdido, and it boasts of very fine white sand and emerald-green waters. At the park itself all you’ll get are picnic tables and outdoor showers, but there are plenty lodging options in the area. A stay at 1-bedroom vacation rentals cost less than $2000 a month. But on a honeymoon visit, why not stay at moderately upscale hotels for $150 to $200 per night. For those prices you get a room, you enjoy a private beach, indoor pools, onsite restaurants, tennis courts, etc. Experience the flavor of freshly caught shrimp, gumbos, and oysters the state is known for.

Miami Beach, Florida

In Miami Beach you will never be far from the water; more than 60% of its area is water. There are swimming, snorkeling, fishing and water sports activities to choose from. There are lots of hotels where you can stay, but moderately good ones cost between $250 and $300 dollars. For people for whom price is no object, there are plenty of luxury suites to choose from. There are two free tram services bringing people to interesting spots like Little Havana, where you get to taste authentic Cuban cuisine and The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. If that is not enough, lovers on their first romantic adventure as a married couple can arrange for a tour of the huge Everglades National Park. Miami Beach remains a prime honeymoon spot.

Fort Myers Beach, Florida

Fort Myers Beach is on south western side of Florida so its beaches are on the gentler Gulf of Mexico side. Aside from the usual beach and water activities, which are still plentiful in Fort Myers Beach, there are lots more for honeymooning couples to experience together. Shopping and dining at the town center later makes for great intimate bonding moments. For variety lovers can visit the Railroad Museum, and Museum of History. The Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve and the Manatee Park waits to be explored. Decent hotels will cost you in excess of $200 a night.

While Fort Myers is not as well known as many other sunny locations in Florida, it is still a great honeymoon destination. Perhaps, that makes it even more appealing.